Will Genia and James Horwill remain on course in their comebacks from injury but they will not be rushed back ahead of a massive year for the Australia pair.

Horwill is on track to be fit for the Reds' opening Super Rugby clash with the Brumbies in Canberra on February 16 while Genia's recovery from a knee reconstruction is ahead of schedule. However Reds coach Ewen McKenzie insists they will be cautious about Horwill's return to action and refused to put a date on Genia's comeback.

The influential pair will be crucial to the Reds' hopes in this season's Super Rugby and to Australia's chances in the Test series against the British & Irish Lions as well as the Rugby Championship.

On Genia's progress, McKenzie said: "I don't have a fixed date (for his return) but he has tracked very well. His rehab has been perfect ... possibly ahead of schedule."

McKenzie added: "He (Horwill) is on track - we haven't rushed him. It's been methodical and very positive."